Just submitted this blog post:
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The James Posey era, while eventful and successful, has come to an end after just one year. We’ll miss the big shots. We’ll miss the lock-down defense. We’ll miss the all-out hustle. Heck, we’ll miss the pre-game hug ritual. With all of that said, good luck in New Orleans, James. It’s time for us to move on, and quickly.
To avoid beating around the bush, let’s just cut right to the chase and evaluate some of the potential replacement options available out on the free agent market.
Josh Childress (Atlanta)
While a long-shot, as he is a restricted free agent, Childress would be a terrific replacement for our old friend “Pose.” He’s freakishly long, he’s athletic, he’s versatile, he’s energetic, he’s disruptive, and most importantly, he’s just 25 years old. However, the Celtics have just the mid-level exception ($5.585 million) to offer him, and it is very likely that the Atlanta Hawks would match any offer of that magnitude. But hey, wishful thinking is always fun to ponder.
J.R. Smith (Denver)
It is extremely unlikely that Denver lets a high-upside swingman like Smith go, but crazier things have happened. Right, Marcus Camby?
Ryan Gomes (Minnesota)
Our good old pal Ryan Gomes is restricted as well, but you’ve got to imagine that Danny Ainge will at least give him a phone call. He may not be the defensive assassin that Posey is, but he’s “just solid” as Doc Rivers often described him during his two-year tenure in Boston (2005-2007). On top of that solidity, which is greatly appreciated coming off of any NBA bench, he’s a hometown favorite and an absolute gem of a human being. Gomes may be a bit of a long shot to return, but should that situation present itself, he’d be welcomed back home with open arms.
Bonzi Wells (New Orleans)
With James Posey signing with the Hornets, the writing is on the wall: buh-bye Bonzi. Wells is notoriously known as a “Celtic Killer” around these parts, but he could be a solid addition for a one or two-year deal. His work ethic and hunger has been questioned in the past, but we’ve seen many “questionable characters” turn into winners in Beantown. In a supporting role around stable veterans, it just might work.
Ricky Davis (Miami)
This is as much of a long-shot as anyone mentioned on this list, but if the C’s get a little desperate, who knows? As Kevin Garnett shouted to the world on the night of June 17, anything is possible. Would Doc Rivers take on the challenge of managing three superstars and Ricky Davis? Fat chance, but the bottom line is that Ricky D can score the ball and give both Paul Pierce and Ray Allen breathers.
Matt Barnes (Golden State)
This one seems to be the popular vote amongst Celtics fans at the moment. Barnes is no James Posey, but he has proven himself as a tough-minded role player that can provide a spark off the bench. Granted, there has to be a reason for him suiting up for five teams since 2003. Regardless, he’s scrappy and he probably comes cheaper than most free agent small forwards.
Bostjan Nachbar (New Jersey)
Nachbar is far from a defensive stopper, but he can shoot the ball and add some size to our second unit. His contract year was a bit of a disappointment, so it’s uncertain as to what type of contract he is seeking, but he’s likely one of the most talented small forwards on the market.
Maurice Evans (Orlando)
Evans is a walking Tommy Point, as his hustle is impeccable and his energy lights up the arena. He can provide a lift on both ends of the floor, and is a valid option as a spot-starter in case of injury or fatigue. As a fan, it’s hard to dislike Mo Evans.
Tony Allen (Boston)
Danny Ainge called Tony Allen last month and told him that if James Posey packed his bags, he’d be high on their to-get list. Well, Posey is on his way to The Big Easy and Tony Allen has yet to receive a formal contract offer. Did Danny sweet-talk “TA” to let him down easy, or was it legitimate? Time will tell.
Kirk Snyder (Minnesota)
Snyder isn’t a flashy pickup, but the Celtics have checked him out and reportedly have taken a bit of a liking to him. The story on Snyder is that he is a big time athlete and hustler, but he has yet to harness his potential on account of his low basketball IQ. That sounds like the second coming of Tony Allen, to me, but we all know that Danny will go out of his way to acquire players that he likes. If other options are scraped from our hands, Snyder could be one of those guys.
Michael Finley (San Antonio)
He’s getting a bit on the old side, but he can still score the ball and be a contributing supporting piece to a winning team. He could more than likely be had fairly cheap, as well.
Quinton Ross (Los Angeles Clippers)
Think Tony Allen, except taller, longer, more coordinated, and a higher basketball IQ. In other words, a lightweight Bruce Bowen. Ross is likely a Plan C option, but he can be had cheap and he can fill a defensive role with the second unit. He’ll never blow you away, but he’ll get the job done.
Darius Miles
Groan… Miles, a notorious lackadaisical “coach killer,” has not suited up for an NBA team since 2006. However, he reportedly was impressive in his Celtics workout and is further along physically than the Celtics had expected. I classify Miles as an unlikely last-resort Plan D pickup, but again, anything is possible.
It’s time to get down and dirty, Danny Boy. Make us proud again.
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Thoughts? Who do you guys like?
